MAGiC, the result of collaboration with SyntheticMR AB, is “one-and-done” imaging that delivers six contrasts which can be completed in as little as one-third the total time taken to acquire each contrast separately using conventional techniques. This time saved could potentially allow clinicians to scan one more patient per hour, throughout the day.

An enhanced SilentScan package is available on SIGNA Pioneer, enabling SilentScan for musculoskeletal imaging and spine imaging. SilentScan is a differentiator for patients enabling a more comfortable and stress-free exam. Conventional MR scanners can generate noise in excess of 110 decibels, roughly equivalent to a rock concert. SilentScan dramatically reduces the scan to just three decibels above ambient noise for most head exams, a major differentiator for patient comfort.

The SIGNA Pioneer also features total digital imaging technology, enabling improved image quality and increasing signal to noise ratio by up to 25%. Total digital imaging is composed of direct digital interface, digital surround technology and digital micro switching.

Direct digital interface employs an independent analog-to-digital converter to digitise inputs from each of the 97 RF channels. Every input is captured and every signal is digitised. Digital surround technology combines the digital signal from every surface coil element with the signal from the integrated RF body coil resulting in richer, higher SNR spine and body images with superior homogeneity and uniformity. Digital micro utilises intelligent micro electro-mechanical switches that support ultra-fast coil switching, which enables future expansion of zero TE imaging capabilities. Zero TE helps enable imaging of tissue that is conventionally difficult to see with MR, such as cortical bone, ligaments and tendons.

“We are proud to introduce MAGiC that allows generation of six different contrasts in a single scan – that’s a major step forward in productivity. And SilentScan is setting the trend in the industry for a new level of patient experience; this enhanced SilentScan package will extend the comfort patients experience now beyond just neuro scans,” says Eric Stahre, president and chief executive officer of GE Healthcare MR.